Greetings cards firm Scribbler has begun distributing self-serve kiosks to stores, with some existing sites generating nearly £13,000 in additional yearly sales from the service.
The kiosks from the high-street retailer come in two sizes: a unit taller than one metre designed for areas such as store entrances, while a smaller tabletop variant is more suitable for till areas in convenience stores.
Customers can choose from more than 1,000 designs, with the card dispensed through an attached printer within minutes from ordering. The suggested pricing for the cards is one for £3.49 or a multibuy promotion of four for £9.99. Stores remain free to set their own prices.
One source close to Scribbler told Better Retailing the machines are available to stores on monthly rental for around £200 per month, while retailers can also choose to purchase the equipment outright. The machines are currently available in 45 sites, which include two forecourt convenience stores, pharmacies, toy shops and photo stores.
Pete Davies, of Marlborough Photo Services in Wiltshire, told Better Retailing he has had the smaller kiosk in his store for a year and averages 10 purchases a day through it. This means annual sales for Davies based on the single price of £3.49 for a card is £12,738.
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He added: “The margin per card sold is healthy and demand does fluctuate based on seasonality, but it does generate additional sales.
“I have it on my till counter, and I find those who come into the store are drawn to it because it’s quite an attractive device. There’s an illuminated touch screen that is quite inviting to interact with. I don’t have to do as much active promotion of it myself.”
A Scribbler spokes-person said full training will be provided to partnered stores, with advice on maintenance. They added: “Fujifilm and Scribbler have been working together for more than a year. You can get a card for pretty much every occasion, and you’ve got a really nice, high-quality card.
“The idea is a small business can get a kiosk, open themselves to any card and supply everyone with a personalised card. Retailers can get over the issue of ordering too many cards for one occasion and the system also updates for the latest trends as well.
“For example, when The Mandalorian TV show on Disney+ became popular, stores could get card designs based on the programme. They also had Harry Styles-themed cards when he was on tour. You can also get cards for events such as Diwali. There’s always an option for everyone.
“Customers can get a wide variety of sizes. Existing store partners have been pleased with the system and the number of options available.”
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